Peg out

Peg out
Pressure Guages usually have a stop or 'peg' that the needle bumps against at the high end. Consequently, when a device is running at its maximum capacity, it is said to be 'pegged' or 'pegged out'. Often used to refer to cars or engines.

I'm familiar with "pinned" and "pinning the needle," but this may be only an American use. Is "pegged" UK usage? In our archives I see "pegged out" as a cribbage term, which I have heard.